Coccidiosis in Rabbits
Coccidiosis is a potentially deadly infection of the Coccidia parasite (Eimeria spp.). Young rabbits are especially susceptible to severe symptoms of Coccidiosis, as well as being the most susceptible to death from the infection.
Coccidia Life Cycle
The Coccidia parasite (Eimeria spp.) will excrete oocysts out into the environment via the feces of the host (Merck Manual). Contact with the infected feces can infect a rabbit with the oocysts which then mature into an are released into the lumen of the intestine and the liver (depending on the species of Coccidia parasite). Hepatic coccidiosis is the most likely to be deadly.
Symptoms
Rabbits with hepatic coccidiosis may have lowered or loss of appetite and have a rough coat. Early symptoms are young rabbits not making gains in weight. Upon necropsy, small, yellow-white nodules can be seen on the liver. Intestinal coccidiosis infections are typically mild, with no outward signs.
Figure to the right shows the yellow-white nodules in the liver.
Treatment
Toltrazuril 2.5% Oral Solution at 5cc per gallon of water is the most effective treatment for both forms of coccidiosis. Safest practice is to treat for 5 days, skip 5 days, and treat again for another 5 days. This is not safe for nursing does or very young kits, so treatment may need to be delayed for them.
Other treatments include liquid sulfaquinoxaline (1 g/4 L dose) for 9 days and amprolium/Corid (9.6% in water or 0.5 mL/500 mL) for 5 days. Note that Corid mimics Vitamin B1 (thiamin), which is necessary for the Coccidia parasite to grow and reproduce.
Successfully treated rabbits (complete elimination of infestation) will be immune to subsequent infestations by the same species but can be infested by a different species.
Please note that we are not licensed veterinarians. These are simply treatment tips that have worked for me in the past. Always consult with a veterinarian.
Prevention
Strict cleaning and sanitizing routines are the best prevention for hepatic coccidiosis. Ammonia (10%) solution is lethal the Coccidia oocysts and can be used to disinfect after all visible fecal material has been removed.